DIY Staining Tips
If you’re working on a DIY stain project, you’ll want to know about stain formulas, sanding, conditioning and finishing before you get started. Get tips for staining wood in this video by Better Homes and Gardens:
1. Picking a formula: You generally have two options when it comes to stains: oil-based or water-based. Water-based stains provide a richer color, dry more quickly, and give off less fumes – and you only need soap and water for cleanup. You do need to be careful to avoid streaks when applying a water-based stain. Oil-based stains penetrate woods deeper, are more durable, and provide a more even finish. An oil-based stain is easier to apply but produces stronger fumes and is harder to clean up.
2. Pick a stain: Unlike paint, a stain will look different depending on what type of wood it’s applied to and what formula you choose. Test out stains on a piece of scrap wood to get an idea of what the finish will look like.
3. Sanding is key: Sanding will prep the wood to receive the stain. Sand until the wood is smooth and even to the touch, and sand with the grain. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth. Higher numbers indicate a finer grit and should be used for finsih work, while lower numbers indicate coarser grits and should be used to prep the wood for stain.
4. Conditioning: Conditioner evens out the surface and helps the wood better absorb the stain. It’s especially important to use a conditioner with soft woods and woods with inconsistent grains like pine, maple and cherry.
5. Time matters: The longer you allow a stain to sit on the wood, the darker the color. If your stain gets a little too dark, you can use a thinner to lighten. Apply the thinner recommended by the stain manufacturer to a cloth and wipe to dilute and wash away some of the pigment.
6. Finish it: Stain will give the wood color but not protection. Sand down the finish with fine sandpaper, then seal the wood with a clear finish in satin, semi-gloss or gloss sheen. The trick for a smooth finish is to go slowly; going quickly creates air bubbles.
